IIT Delhi reduces CGPA threshold to ease graduation requirements

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has made a significant policy shift by reducing the CGPA threshold required for graduation. This change, which eliminates the minimum CGPA requirement for degree conferment, aims to alleviate mental health pressures among students and provide greater academic flexibility.

IIT Delhi Reduces CGPA Threshold: New Policy Details

IIT Delhi has officially lowered the cumulative grade point average (CGPA) requirement for students to graduate. Previously, students needed to maintain a CGPA of 5.0 to be eligible for a degree. Under the new policy, approved by the institute’s senate, the minimum CGPA has been reduced to 4.0. This adjustment means that students who complete all their courses will now receive a CGPA of 4.0, which is the new threshold for graduation.

Professor ND Karur, the Dean (Academics) at IIT Delhi, explained, “This is a crucial policy change that has been brought about to extend support to students. This means their academic progression will be monitored and those struggling to get that CGPA 5, as was the case until now, will not need to stress about getting their graduation degree, as they would be required just to pass all the courses they have opted for in order to receive their degrees. This is a big change from what we used to do earlier.” The new policy is designed to ease academic pressure and ensure that students have a clear path to graduation without the added stress of meeting a higher CGPA requirement.

IIT Delhi Reduces CGPA Threshold: Enhanced Support and Flexibility

In addition to the reduction in the CGPA requirement, IIT Delhi has introduced several measures to support students facing academic challenges. The institute has updated its policies on re-starting academic programs and handling student terminations. Director Rangan Banerjee noted, “This means that we will allow students to progress academically by putting them on a probation period. So, in-principle, there is no termination on this basis.” This new approach aims to provide students with additional time and support to complete their degrees.

Banerjee also mentioned that the updated policy allows students who fail some courses to opt for similar courses to fulfill their degree requirements. This flexibility is intended to simplify the academic process and provide students with more opportunities to succeed. The institute’s efforts are part of a broader response to student demands regarding grading policies, social isolation, and feedback mechanisms.

The policy change follows a troubling year marked by student suicides at various IIT campuses. In 2024, five student suicides were reported, with cases occurring at IIT Kanpur, IIT Delhi, IIT BHU, and IIT Roorkee. Many of these students were first-generation learners from reserved categories. In response to these tragic events, IIT Delhi established an ‘Academic Progress Group’ in December of the previous year. This group, which includes faculty and student caregivers, is dedicated to supporting struggling students and those on extended degree programs.

A faculty member involved with the Academic Progress Group shared, “Currently, there are around 30-35 students in the Academic Progress Group from different departments. They have been assigned mentors for guiding them through the courses they have not been able to make progress in. One of these students has done so well on being guided that he himself has become a mentor now. For those allowed to stay with a parent, the number is less than ten.” The group’s efforts highlight the institute’s commitment to providing personalized support to students in need.

In exceptional cases, IIT Delhi has allowed students to stay with family members on campus and has reserved hostel accommodations for those with extended degree programs. This measure ensures that students have the necessary support to complete their studies within a manageable timeframe.

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